What You Need to Know About the Mosquito-Borne Virus
KARACHI: Pakistan’s healthcare system is under pressure as cases of chikungunya continue to rise sharply in Karachi, the country’s largest city. Since May, hospitals have been reporting between 500 and 750 suspected cases daily, placing a severe strain on an already stretched healthcare infrastructure.
Local media and healthcare experts warn that this mosquito-borne virus poses a significant public health threat, especially in urban centers like Karachi and Lahore where mosquito populations thrive.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral disease spread by infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the same species responsible for dengue and Zika transmission.
The name “chikungunya” comes from the Kimakonde language of East Africa and means “to become contorted,” describing the severe joint pain that leaves patients bent over in agony.
Why is the Outbreak in Karachi So Severe?
Karachi’s dense population of over 20 million people, poor sanitation, and limited mosquito control have contributed to this surge.
According to the Aga Khan University Hospital, recent months have seen severe chikungunya cases, particularly among older adults and patients with diabetes.
Complications can include:
- Neurological symptoms such as paralysis and coma
- Heart and eye problems
- Prolonged hospital stays with need for intensive care and ventilation
Testing Challenges in Pakistan’s Healthcare System
While government records show 172 PCR-confirmed cases between May and September out of 713 tested individuals, experts believe actual numbers are much higher.
Many people are diagnosed based on symptoms and blood tests indicating low platelet counts—cheaper alternatives given the high cost of PCR testing.
Cost Barrier: PCR tests in private hospitals cost 7,000–8,000 rupees ($25–28), a significant expense in a country where the monthly per capita income was around $118 in 2021 (World Bank).
Limited Access: Only a few private hospitals offer PCR tests, though the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre in Karachi provides free testing.
Muslim Shah, a Karachi resident, confirmed patients are treated in general wards without mosquito nets, increasing the risk of further spread.
Healthcare Experts Warn of Prolonged Risk
Abdul Wahid Rajput, Director of the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital and Research Centre, has stated that chikungunya and dengue infections are expected to remain severe through December.
Many residents blame inadequate government action, especially the lack of regular fogging and vector control, for worsening the crisis.
How Does Chikungunya Spread?
- An infected mosquito bites a healthy person, injecting the virus.
- A mosquito biting an infected person becomes a carrier.
- The cycle continues, with human-to-human spread only occurring via mosquito bites.
The virus also exists in wild animals like monkeys, which serve as a natural reservoir.
Conclusion
The chikungunya outbreak in Karachi is a stark reminder of the need to strengthen healthcare systems in Pakistan to respond to infectious disease threats. Better prevention, affordable testing, and public awareness are critical to controlling this mosquito-borne virus and protecting the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
